A view of the learning organization from a corporate governance perspective: Interview with Bob Garratt

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an overview of the development of learning organization concepts from the perspective of Professor Bob Garratt and presents an interesting evolution toward his work on learning boardroom members.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a conversation with Professor Garratt, the authors capture several topics pertaining to his evolution of learning organization concepts, those who have differing views and ultimately what led him to develope his theories on the impact of the most senior members of an organization on the learning constructs.

Findings

The learning organization debate has many foundations that today have led to differing perspectives. Professor Garratt provides his particular background and how he developed his opinions, which he admits have not always been embraced in practice.

Originality/value

The discussion with Bob Garratt reveals his understanding of the learning organization concept and how it developed from a lifetime of practical application. Ultimately, the reader will understand, in Professor Garratt’s own words, where he was confronted with challenges and why his concepts evolved to where they are today.

Citation

Sidani, Y. and Reese, S. (2018), "A view of the learning organization from a corporate governance perspective: Interview with Bob Garratt", The Learning Organization, Vol. 25 No. 6, pp. 434-442. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLO-07-2018-0122